What is brake fluid?

Car brakes on your car use fluid pressure to work. When a car’s brake pedal is pushed, a plunger in the brake’s master cylinder pressurises the brake fluid that resides in the hoses and pipes to make the other components of the braking system move.

How long does brake fluid last?

This varies from car to car, but most manufacturers suggest that the fluid is replaced at least every couple of years. Although the fluid is in a sealed system, moisture can still find its way in. It corrodes components over time and decreases the temperature at which the fluid is supposed to boil. Furthermore, as the internal components of the braking system wear out, debris contaminates the fluid, jamming everything up. All of this impacts on how well the brakes function, particularly in constant stop-start traffic with heavy braking.

What are the possible signs that a car needs new, or more, brake fluid?

If the brakes on a car feel in any way as though they are not functioning correctly.

When the car’s brakes are spongy when pressed.

When fluid is new, it has a light amber colour to it, so that is what to look out for.

As the light amber fluid darkens, which is a sign of contamination, the need to change it increases.

If the fluid ever becomes darker than brown, or even black, then it should be changed immediately.

How long does it take to change brake fluid?

The fluid can be easily replaced in around 15-30 minutes, depending on the vehicle.

How much does brake fluid cost?

The fluid is relatively inexpensive, certainly compared to the cost of replacing a corroded master cylinder, so it’s important to keep an eye on it.

The cost can vary from vehicle to vehicle but should be less than £50.

About Hyundai

Coming from the Korean word for “modernity”, Hyundai was founded as a small construction firm in South Korea in 1947, but didn’t become the Hyundai Motor Company until 20 years later. Currently, Hyundai is the fourth largest vehicle manufacturer in the world, operating the world's largest integrated automobile manufacturing facility, with cars sold in nearly 200 countries. That’s serious business!

The company is known for building a fairly traditional set of saloons, city cars, SUVs, and hatchbacks, as well as a very large i800 MPV.

Both the Tucson and the Santa Fe offer a good combination of practicality, a commanding driving position and decent value for money in the face of fierce competition. The compact yet surprisingly spacious i10 supermini is one of Hyundai’s highest rated cars.

How to be a better driver

Whether you’re driving in Baldock or further afield, think about road user etiquette. Showing respect for other road users
makes driving more pleasant for you and safer for everyone. For example, if you have to make a last minute change of lane, make
your request to change clear to the driver who will need to let you in - and signal your thanks if they do. Be ready to abandon
the change of lane if they won’t play ball - your safety (and that of other drivers and pedestrians) is more important than
getting to your destination in the shortest time possible. When the position is reversed and a driver asks your permission to
change lanes, allow them to as long as it is safe. If you get frustrated, avoid using your horn - it won’t improve matters and
might make them considerably worse.